Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, May 27: Revathy, a first-year BSc student from Malayinkeezhu Madhava Kavi Smaraka Government Arts and Science College, along with fellow NSS volunteers, is taking a hands-on approach to combating drug abuse in Kattakada Assembly constituency. The students knock on doors in six panchayats, conducting household surveys and raising awareness about the dangers of drug use.

Launched by local MLA I B Satheesh, the initiative involves volunteers staying with families for three days, observing living conditions, and engaging in conversations about synthetic drugs and their harmful effects. “The experience we got was excellent. We understood what was going on inside homes and in the community,” said Revathy.

MLA Satheesh said the project uncovered far more cases of drug abuse than expected and praised the involvement of parents and youth. “This is possibly the first such initiative in the country, and Kerala could adopt it state-wide,” he said.

The volunteers also conduct group discussions and awareness sessions to encourage early detection of drug abuse. The data collected will be submitted to Kerala’s Survey and Statistics Department to aid targeted interventions.

Amid rising drug-related crimes, Kerala’s Operation D Hunt has so far registered over 14,600 cases statewide, with more than 15,000 arrests. The project in Kattakada is seen as a vital community-driven step in this ongoing battle against substance abuse.